• EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey

TBR Football understands West Ham United are close to agreeing a deal with Flamengo to sign Brazilian international defender Fabricio Bruno.

TBR sources confirm that Bruno has already agreed to make the move to England and terms on his contract are all but finalised with his representatives.

Bruno, who made his international debut against England at Wembley earlier this year, is ready to sign a long-term deal at the London Stadium.

• READ MORE: West Ham United eyeing move to sign ‘exciting’ £8.5m chance creating machine this summer

Julen Lopetegui has approved Fabricio Bruno transfer

TBR understands that technical director Tim Steidten has put the wheels in motion, but new boss Julen Lopetegui – whose appointment is set to be confirmed before the end of the month – has approved the move.

West Ham are set to agree a deal that in total could be worth up to £15million – including add-ons – but the initial fee will be closer to £12million for the 28-year-old.

Bruno is comfortable operating as a left and right-side centre-back, providing The Hammers with great depth in two positions.

• READ MORE: West Ham have entered the race to sign £21m-rated winger who is one of the quickest players in Europe

Fabricio Bruno statistics

It’s easy to see why West Ham have moved quickly to land Bruno’s signature when you take a look at his exceptional FBref statistics.

The Brazil international ranks in the top 11 per cent for pass completion and progressive passes per 90 compared to his positional peers across South America and Europe.

Evidently, he is one of the best passers in Brazil and beyond, which will be a trait that hugely appeals to Lopetegui.

A shrewd acquisition, if they indeed get it over the line.

• READ MORE: West Ham United ‘favourites’ to sign £21.3m forward who has been likened to Neymar